Sporting feature show garden
The 2011 Chicago Flower & Garden Show is now on. As designers, we always look forward to the event because not only is it a chance to see lovely landscaping displays and ideas, it’s also a sure harbinger of spring. There is one thing however that always disappoints us about the indoor flower show, which is how difficult it is to photograph the designs in a way that really does them justice! We like to think we are okay photographers but haven’t quite figured out the art of shooting the show. So this probably means the only way to take in the design work and features in their full glory is to go see them all in person!
This year’s theme is The Sport of Gardening and we have a quick peek at some of what you'll find that make this event a great day out.
One of the main feature gardens is pictured above. It's a large, creative and fun tribute to the Chicago Blackhawks complete with an ice rink water feature that visitors can walk through. There are several displays that pay tribute to professional sports teams while others showcase more leisurely outdoor alfresco activities such as golf, kid's play and the grueling sports of barbecue and lifting a few cold beers!
Tablescape makes an appearance again this year and display creative approaches to table settings and flower arrangement for outdoor dining and entertaining.
We are glad to see Smith & Hawken is back with a new garden range sold exclusively at Target. This longtime favorite English brand includes attractive and affordable teak outdoor furniture, ceramic and metal planting containers, as well as other stylish landscape garden decor and high quality gardening tools.
Other exhibitors in the flower show Marketplace include Aquascape water features, brick paving manufacturers Belgard and Unilock, Lurvey Landscape Supply and Garden Center and Rich's Foxwillow Pines Nursery.
